What are you writing? What did you write this week?

I'm reworking a manuscript that I have, but right now, it's sitting on my desk. (Where it's been sitting for the last week.) I'm working on a business proposal and presentation for a volunteer group. And I wrote four test plans and business briefs.

I'm writing, but I don't always have time for my creative projects. Recently, I've joined a critique group, and I'm hoping that this will help me keep on track with my manuscript project. We meet monthly and read each others' work. The feedback is invaluable. I've never been part of a writing group before, and it's interesting to listen to the variety of comments and suggestions.

I try to present my feedback like I do when I coach employees or like we did in Toastmasters. I start with something positive. I highlight some areas that need improvement, and I end on another positive item. I've heard this method called the "JAM" method or the sandwich method. (You sandwich the jam between two positive pieces of bread.) It seems to work.

I'm also rereading Noah Lukeman's The First Five Pages . If you're interested in creative writing, it's a great reference. It's eye-opening when you realize that you've committed some (or a lot) of the "no-no's."

Enjoy your weekend and keep writing!